Tanzanian Coal in Uganda’s Cement Industry

Coal imported from Tanzania is a growing fuel source for Uganda’s industry, including cement. Official customs data show that Uganda imported 204,284 tonnes of coal in 2024, double the 2021 volume, and about 95% came from Tanzania. The named suppliers operate mainly around the Ngaka coalfield in Mbinga District, Ruvuma Region.

Hima Cement is the only Ugandan cement maker with direct evidence of buying Tanzanian coal. WIH Cement (Moroto) is listed as a coal importer, but its coal origin is unconfirmed. Tororo Cement has burned coal, but its supplier is unconfirmed. No company publishes its coal spending. Declared imports were USD 9.64 million in 2024, but this report estimates the delivered cost at USD 33 to 53 million a year across all sectors.

The coal chain causes reported harm at three stages: water and dust problems in mining communities, road dust and emissions along a long truck route, and pollution from kilns. Burning the 2024 imports would release an estimated 500,000 tonnes of CO2. If fully coal-fired, the Moroto plant could burn about 260,000 tonnes of coal a year, more than all 2024 imports.

Plants elsewhere are replacing coal with farm residues, processed waste, natural gas and clean electricity. The report recommends public coal data for each company, independent water and air monitoring, and dated targets for phasing down coal.